Why Marks & Spencer’s Kathryn Turner Became the Ultimate ‘Gay Halloween’ Costume Idea

Kathryn Turner, Marks & Spencer Food’s director of product development, has become an unexpected social media sensation, amassing 310,000 TikTok and 270,000 Instagram followers. Her in-store videos showcasing new desserts like the banana, caramel and pecan pudding, and taste tests of items such as cherry and chocolate cookies, have resonated widely. This success stems from M&S’s 2020 strategy to use 100 of its own employees as influencers instead of traditional ones, aiming to attract younger shoppers. Turner’s relatable, down-to-earth style has now inspired a niche ‘Gay Halloween’ costume trend, highlighting her cultural impact. Her rise shows how authentic employee voices can drive engagement and brand affinity in the digital age.